Isothermal Community College to Launch NC Boost: North Carolina’s Accelerated College-to-Career Program in Fall 2026

By: Blakely Hollifield
Published: March 09, 2026

Spindale, NC (March 6, 2026) – Isothermal Community College will launch NC Boost in Fall 2026, bringing North Carolina’s accelerated college-to-career program to students in Rutherford and Polk counties. 

NC Boost is part of a statewide initiative through the North Carolina Community College System and is modeled after the nationally recognized Accelerated Study in Associate Programs (ASAP) developed by the State University of New York (SUNY) System. The program helps students move through college more efficiently and into high-wage, high-demand careers that are critical to North Carolina’s future prosperity. NC Boost focuses on breaking down barriers that can delay completion and providing the structure and support students need from enrollment to graduation. 

At Isothermal, Boost will serve students pursuing degrees in high-growth fields such as science, engineering, health care, advanced manufacturing, information technology, teacher preparation, and other workforce-aligned programs. 

Through NC Boost, eligible students will receive: 

• A dedicated Boost academic advisor 

• Structured academic pathways designed to keep students on track 

• Access to coordinated student support services 

• A monthly grant of up to $100, paid directly to students, tied to attendance and academic progress 

“NC Boost removes barriers that too often stand between our residents and a college credential of value,” said Dr. Margaret Annunziata, President of Isothermal Community College. “By providing structured support, advising, and financial assistance, the program helps students in Rutherford and Polk counties complete faster, earn more, and strengthen our local workforce. It aligns perfectly with our mission, supporting individuals in completing credentials that allow them to enter and advance in rewarding careers.” 

The program is open to eligible North Carolina residents who are enrolled in qualifying degree or diploma programs and committed to completing at least 24 credit hours per academic year. Boost is designed especially for students who are ready to move intentionally through their coursework and into careers that serve both their families and their communities. 

Isothermal is partnering with McDowell Technical Community College and Western Piedmont Community College to expand access to the initiative across Western North Carolina. While each college will implement the program within its own service area, the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to accelerating student success and strengthening regional workforce pathways. 

“The opportunity to participate in NC Boost allows Isothermal to work alongside Western Piedmont and McDowell Tech to remove barriers that too often slow students down or stop them altogether,” said Dr. Greg Thomas, Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs. “With enhanced academic, financial, and advising support, we can help students in Western North Carolina stay on track, move more efficiently through their education, and connect directly to high-demand career pathways.” 

Enrollment for NC Boost at Isothermal Community College will begin ahead of the Fall 2026 semester. Students can learn more about eligibility requirements and participating programs at: isothermal.edu/getstarted/financial-aid/aid-types/boost/